ASME B30.

23-2022
(Revision of ASME B30.23-2016)

Personnel Lifting
Systems
Safety Standard for Cableways,
Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Hooks, Jacks,
and Slings

A N A M E R I C A N N AT I O N A L STA N DA R D
 ASME B30.23-2022
(Revision of ASME B30.23-2016)

Personnel Lifting
Systems
Safety Standard for Cableways,
Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Hooks, Jacks,
and Slings

AN AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Two Park Avenue • New York, NY • 10016 USA

x
 Date of Issuance: June 30, 2022

The next edition of this Standard is scheduled for publication in 2027. This Standard will become effective 1 year after the Date of
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All rights reserved
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 CONTENTS

Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Committee Roster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
B30 Standard Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii
Summary of Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi

Chapter 23-0 Scope, Definitions, and References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Section 23-0.1 Scope of ASME B30.23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Section 23-0.2 Intent of ASME B30.23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Section 23-0.3 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Section 23-0.4 Personnel Competence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Section 23-0.5 References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Chapter 23-1 Construction and Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Section 23-1.1 Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Section 23-1.2 Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Chapter 23-2 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Section 23-2.1 Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Section 23-2.2 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Section 23-2.3 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Chapter 23-3 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Section 23-3.1 Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Section 23-3.2 Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Mandatory Appendices
I Lifting Personnel Near Electrical Power Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
II Personnel Platform Lift Planning and Authorization Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
III Personnel Lift Platform Pre-Lift Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Figures
I-1-1 Condition A ................................................... . . . . 17
I-1-2 Condition B ................................................... . . . . 18
I-1-3 Condition C .................................................... . . . . 19
I-1-4 Condition D ................................................... . . . . 20

Table
I-2-1 Required Clearance for Normal Voltage in Operation Near High-Voltage Power Lines and
Operation in Transit With No Load and Boom or Mast Lowered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

iii
 FOREWORD

This American National Standard, Safety Standard for Cableways, Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Hooks, Jacks, and Slings, has
been developed under the procedures accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This Standard had
its beginning in December 1916, when an eight-page “Code of Safety Standards for Cranes,” prepared by the American
Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Committee on the Protection of Industrial Workers, was presented at the annual
meeting of the ASME.
Meetings and discussions regarding safety on cranes, derricks, and hoists were held from 1920 to 1925 involving the
ASME Safety Code Correlating Committee, the Association of Iron and Steel Electrical Engineers, the American Museum of
Safety, the American Engineering Standards Committee (AESC) [later changed to American Standards Association (ASA),
then to the United States of America Standards Institute (USASI), and finally to ANSI], Department of Labor — State of New
Jersey, Department of Labor and Industry — State of Pennsylvania, and the Locomotive Crane Manufacturers Association.
On June 11, 1925, the AESC approved the ASME Safety Code Correlating Committee’s recommendation and authorized the
project with the U.S. Department of the Navy, Bureau of Yards and Docks, and ASME as sponsors.
In March 1926, invitations were issued to 50 organizations to appoint representatives to a Sectional Committee. The
call for organization of this Sectional Committee was sent out October 2, 1926, and the Committee was organized on
November 4, 1926, with 57 members representing 29 national organizations.
Commencing June 1, 1927, and using the eight-page Code published by ASME in 1916 as a basis, the Sectional
Committee developed the “Safety Code for Cranes, Derricks, and Hoists.” The early drafts of this safety code included
requirements for jacks, but due to inputs and comments on those drafts, the Sectional Committee decided in 1938 to make
the requirements for jacks a separate code. In January 1943, ASA B30.2-1943 was published addressing a multitude of
equipment types, and in August 1943, ASA B30.1-1943 was published addressing only jacks. Both documents were
reaffirmed in 1952 and widely accepted as safety standards.
Due to changes in design, advancement in techniques, and general interest of labor and industry in safety, the Sectional
Committee, under the joint sponsorship of ASME and the Bureau of Yards and Docks (now the Naval Facilities Engineering
Command), was reorganized on January 31, 1962, with 39 members representing 27 national organizations. The new
Committee changed the format of ASA B30.2-1943 so that the multitude of equipment types it addressed could be
published in separate volumes that could completely cover the construction, installation, inspection, testing, mainte-
nance, and operation of each type of equipment that was included in the scope of ASA B30.2. This format change resulted
in B30.3, B30.5, B30.6, B30.11, and B30.16 being initially published as “Revisions” of B30.2, with the remainder of the B30
volumes being published as totally new volumes. ASA changed its name to USASI in 1966 and to ANSI in 1969, which
resulted in B30 volumes from 1943 to 1968 being designated as ASA B30, USAS B30, or ANSI B30, depending on their date
of publication. In 1982, the Committee was reorganized as an Accredited Organization Committee operating under
procedures developed by ASME and accredited by ANSI.
This Standard presents a coordinated set of rules that may serve as a guide to government and other regulatory bodies
and municipal authorities responsible for the guarding and inspection of the equipment falling within its scope. The
suggestions leading to accident prevention are given both as mandatory and advisory provisions; compliance with both
types may be required by employers of their employees. In case of practical difficulties, new developments, or unne-
cessary hardship, the administrative or regulatory authority may grant variances from the literal requirements or permit
the use of other devices or methods, but only when it is clearly evident that an equivalent degree of protection is thereby
secured. To secure uniform application and interpretation of this Standard, administrative or regulatory authorities are
urged to consult the B30 Committee, in accordance with the format described in Section IX of the B30 Standard Intro-
duction, before rendering decisions on disputed points.
Safety codes and standards are intended to enhance public safety. Revisions result from committee consideration of
factors such as technological advances, new data, and changing environmental and industry needs. Revisions do not imply
that previous editions were inadequate.
The first edition of ASME B30.23 was published in 1998. New editions were published in 2005 and 2011. The 2016
edition of this Standard included revisions to reflect current technology and terminology, and changes were made to
update all chapters to be more consistent with other B30 volumes. The 2022 edition incorporates new and updated
definitions, as well as updates to Section 23-1.1 and Section 23-3.2.

iv
 This Volume of the Standard, which was approved by the B30 Committee and ASME, was approved by ANSI and
designated as an American National Standard on February 22, 2022.

v
 ASME B30 COMMITTEE
Safety Standard for Cableways, Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Hooks,
Jacks, and Slings
(The following is the roster of the Committee at the time of approval of this Standard.)
STANDARDS COMMITTEE OFFICERS
T. L. Blanton, Chair
E. D. Fidler, Vice Chair
S. D. Wood, Vice Chair
K. Peterson, Secretary
STANDARDS COMMITTEE PERSONNEL
N. E. Andrew, Neil E. Andrew and Associates, LLC
B. B. Bacon, Tennessee Valley Authority
T. L. Blanton, OGR Consulting Services, LLC
P. A. Boeckman, The Crosby Group, Inc.
P. W. Boyd, The Boeing Co.
J. R. Burkey, Columbus McKinnon Corp.
B. D. Closson, Craft Forensic Services
J. A. Danielson, The Boeing Co.
D. R. Decker, Becket, LLC
L. D. Demark, Sr., Equipment Training Solutions, LLC
D. W. Eckstine, Eckstine and Associates, Inc.
E. D. Fidler, Grove U.S., LLC
M. Gardiner, ICC Forensics, LLC
J. A. Gilbert, Associated Wire Rope Fabricators
D. A. Henninger, Bridon-Bekaert, The Ropes Group
G. B. Hetherston, Hetherston Consulting, LLC
M. M. Jaxtheimer, Navy Crane Center
P. R. Juhren, Morrow Equipment Co., LLC
R. M. Kohner, Landmark Engineering Services
A. J. Lusi, Jr., Lumark Consulting, LLP
L. D. Means, Means Engineering and Consulting, PC
M. W. Mills, Liberty Mutual Insurance
R. M. Parnell, Industrial Training International — Field Service
J. T. Perkins, All Material Handling
K. Peterson, The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
B. A. Pickett, Systems Engineering and Forensic Services
J. A. Pilgrim, Manitowoc Cranes
S. K. Rammelsberg, McDermott
K. Reynolds, Shell Exploration and Production
J. E. Richardson, U.S. Department of the Navy
J. W. Rowland III, Consultant
A. R. Ruud, Atkinson Construction
L. K. Shapiro, Howard I. Shapiro and Associates
D. W. Smith, J. E. Spear Consulting, LP
W. J. Smith, Jr., NationsBuilders Insurance Services, Inc.
R. S. Stemp, Lampson International, LLC
R. G. Strain, Advanced Crane Technologies, LLC
J. Sturm, Sturm Corp.
D. Sullivan, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 542
Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
vi
P. D. Sweeney, Riverside Engineering, LLC
E. P. Vliet, Consultant
J. D. Wiethorn, International Crane and Construction Safety
Solutions, LLC
R. C. Wild, CJ Drilling, Inc.
S. D. Wood, Terex Corp.
R. J. Bolen, Alternate, Consultant
D. Boyle, Alternate, The Crosby Group, Inc.
B. M. Casey, Alternate, Electric Boat
M. Chaudanson, Alternate, Howard I. Shapiro and Associates
W. C. Dickinson, Jr., Alternate, Crane Industry Services, LLC
D. Duerr, Alternate, 2DM Associates, Inc.
M. Eckstine, Alternate, Safelift, LLC
S. R. Fletcher, Alternate, Cowles, Murphy, Glover and Associates
T. Gordon, Alternate, International Union of Operating Engineers
Local 14 Training Fund
J. B. Greenwood, Alternate, Navy Crane Center
C. K. Hale, Alternate, Columbus McKinnon Corp.
D. F. Jordan, Alternate, American International Crane Bureau
K. Kennedy, Alternate, Navy Crane Center
D. Lavoie, Alternate, Liberty Mutual Insurance
J. Lindsay, Alternate, Link-Belt Construction Equipment
J. P. Mihlbauer, Jr., Alternate, All Ship and Cargo Surveys, Ltd.
G. D. Miller, Alternate, Manitowoc Cranes
D. A. Moore, Alternate, Unified Engineering
L. S. Olver, Alternate, Kolo Holdings, Inc.
J. M. Randall, Alternate, McDermott
G. M. Ray, Alternate, Tennessee Valley Authority
C. L. Richardson, Alternate, Lone Star Rigging, LP
M. Riggs, Alternate, RiggSafe Solutions, Inc.
J. R. Schober, Alternate, American Bridge Co.
J. Schoppert, Alternate, NationsBuilders Insurance Services, Inc.
T. Sicklesteel, Alternate, National Commission for the Certification of
Crane Operators
C. H. Smith, Alternate, Morrow Equipment Co., LLC
J. E. Spear, Alternate, J.E. Spear Consulting, LP
J. A. Stewart, Alternate, Stewart Safety Consulting
J. J. Van Egeren, Alternate, Manitowoc Cranes
M. P. Zerba, Alternate, Lampson International, LLC
 HONORARY MEMBERS
J. W. Downs, Jr., Honorary Member, Downs Crane and Hoist Co.
J. L. Franks, Honorary Member, Consultant
C. W. Ireland, Honorary Member, National Oilwell Varco
J. M. Klibert, Honorary Member, Lift-All Co., Inc.
B30.23 SUBCOMMITTEE PERSONNEL
S. D. Wood, Chair, Terex Corp.
P. A. Boeckman, The Crosby Group, LLC
D. R. Decker, Becket, LLC
E. L. Diamond, Manitowoc Cranes
S. R. Fletcher, Cowles, Murphy, Glover and Associates
M. Goodale, Altec, Inc.
P. S. Guthorn, Vollmer-Gray Engineering
S. Lawrence, Fluor
G. D. Miller, Manitowoc Cranes
B30 INTEREST REVIEW GROUP
O. Akinboboye, Ropetech Engineering Services, Ltd.
J. D. Cannon, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
B. Dobbs, Lifting Equipment Engineers Association
M. J. Eggenberger, Berry Contracting, Inc.
A. Gomes Rocha, Industrial Training International
J. B. Greenwood, Navy Crane Center
N. C. Hargreaves, Hargreaves Consulting, LLC
H. A. Hashem, Saudi Aramco
B30 REGULATORY AUTHORITY COUNCIL
C. N. Stribling, Jr., Chair, Kentucky Labor Cabinet
K. Peterson, Secretary, The American Society of Mechanical
Engineers
R. D. Jackson, U.S. Department of Labor
D. E. Latham, State of Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and
Regulation
M. J. Nelmida, State of California, Occupational Safety and Health
Standards Board
vii
R. W. Parry, Honorary Member, Parry Parry and Glen
J. C. Ryan, Honorary Member, Boh Bros. Construction Co., LLC
D. N. Wolff, Honorary Member, Consultant
M. W. Mills, Consultant
J. A. Pilgrim, Manitowoc Cranes
P. Quick, Affiliated Engineering Laboratories
D. Sullivan, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 542
Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
E. D. Filder, Alternate, Grove U.S., LLC
J. J. Van Egeren, Alternate, Manitowoc Cranes
N. C. Hargreaves, Contributing Member, Hargreaves Consulting, LLC
J. Hui, Southeast University, School of Civil Engineering, Nanjing
A. C. Mattoli, Prowinch, LLC
J. Mellott-Green, All Canadian Training Institute, Inc.
J. P. Mihlbauer, Jr., All Ship and Cargo Surveys, Ltd.
L. S. Olver, Kolo Holdings, Inc.
G. L. Owens, Consultant
A. Payne, Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
C.-C. Tsaur, Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Taiwan
C. Shelhamer, New York City Department of Buildings
T. Taylor, North Carolina Department of Labor
G. M. Thomas, South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and
Regulation
A. O. Omran, Alternate, New York City Department of Buildings
N. Reynolds, Alternate, Maryland Occupational Safety and Health
ð22Þ B30 STANDARD INTRODUCTION

SECTION I: SCOPE B30.21 Lever Hoists

B30.22 Articulating Boom Cranes
The ASME B30 Standard contains provisions that apply
to the construction, installation, operation, inspection, B30.23 Personnel Lifting Systems
testing, maintenance, and use of cranes and other B30.24 Container Cranes
lifting and material-movement-related equipment. For B30.25 Scrap and Material Handlers
the convenience of the reader, the Standard has been
B30.26 Rigging Hardware
divided into separate volumes. Each volume has been
written under the direction of the ASME B30 Standards B30.27 Material Placement Systems
Committee and has successfully completed a consensus B30.28 Balance Lifting Units
approval process under the general auspices of the Amer- B30.29 Self-Erecting Tower Cranes
ican National Standards Institute (ANSI).
B30.30 Ropes
As of the date of issuance of this Volume, the B30 Stan-
dard comprises the following volumes: B30.31 Self-Propelled, Towed, or Remote-Controlled
Hydraulic Platform Transporters1
B30.1 Jacks, Industrial Rollers, Air Casters, and
B30.32 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Used in
Hydraulic Gantries
Inspection, Testing, Maintenance, and Lifting
B30.2 Overhead and Gantry Cranes (Top Running Operations
Bridge, Single or Multiple Girder, Top Running
Trolley Hoist)
SECTION II: SCOPE EXCLUSIONS
B30.3 Tower Cranes
B30.4 Portal and Pedestal Cranes Any exclusion of, or limitations applicable to, the equip-
B30.5 Mobile and Locomotive Cranes ment, requirements, recommendations, or operations
contained in this Standard are established in the affected
B30.6 Derricks
volume’s scope.
B30.7 Winches
B30.8 Floating Cranes and Floating Derricks SECTION III: PURPOSE
B30.9 Slings The B30 Standard is intended to
B30.10 Hooks (a) prevent or minimize injury to workers, and other-
B30.11 Monorails and Underhung Cranes (withdrawn wise provide for the protection of life, limb, and property
2018 — requirements found in latest revision by prescribing safety requirements
of B30.17) (b) provide direction to manufacturers, owners,
employers, users, and others concerned with, or respon-
B30.12 Handling Loads Suspended From Rotorcraft
sible for, its application
B30.13 Storage/Retrieval (S/R) Machines and (c) guide governments and other regulatory bodies in
Associated Equipment the development, promulgation, and enforcement of
B30.14 Side Boom Tractors appropriate safety directives
B30.15 Mobile Hydraulic Cranes (withdrawn 1982 — SECTION IV: USE BY REGULATORY AGENCIES
requirements found in latest revision of
B30.5) These volumes may be adopted in whole or in part for
B30.16 Overhead Underhung and Stationary Hoists governmental or regulatory use. If adopted for govern-
B30.17 Cranes and Monorails (With Underhung Trolley mental use, the references to other national codes and
or Bridge) standards in the specific volumes may be changed to
refer to the corresponding regulations of the govern-
B30.18 Stacker Cranes (Top or Under Running Bridge, mental authorities.
Multiple Girder With Top or Under Running
Trolley Hoist)
B30.19 Cableways
B30.20 Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices 1
This volume is currently in the development process.

viii
SECTION V: EFFECTIVE DATE
(a) Effective Date. The effective date of this Volume of
the B30 Standard shall be 1 yr after its date of issuance.
Construction, installation, inspection, testing, mainte-
nance, and operation of equipment manufactured and
facilities constructed after the effective date of this
Volume shall conform to the mandatory requirements
of this Volume.
(b) Existing Installations. Equipment manufactured
and facilities constructed prior to the effective date of
this Volume of the B30 Standard shall be subject to
the inspection, testing, maintenance, and operation re-
quirements of this Standard after the effective date.
It is not the intent of this Volume of the B30 Standard to
require retrofitting of existing equipment. However, when
an item is being modified, its performance requirements
shall be reviewed relative to the requirements within the
current volume. The need to meet the current require-
ments shall be evaluated by a qualified person selected
by the owner (user). Recommended changes shall be
made by the owner (user) within 1 yr.
SECTION VI: REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Requirements of this Standard are characterized by use
of the word shall. Recommendations of this Standard are
characterized by the word should.
SECTION VII: USE OF MEASUREMENT UNITS
This Standard contains SI (metric) units as well as U.S.
Customary units. The values stated in U.S. Customary units
are to be regarded as the standard. The SI units are a direct
(soft) conversion from the U.S. Customary units.
SECTION VIII: REQUESTS FOR REVISION
The B30 Standards Committee will consider requests
for revision of any of the volumes within the B30 Standard.
Such requests should be directed to
Secretary, B30 Standards Committee
ASME Standards and Certification
Two Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016-5990
Requests should be in the following format:
Volume: Cite the designation and title of the volume.
Edition: Cite the applicable edition of the volume.
Subject: Cite the applicable paragraph number(s) and
the relevant heading(s).
Request: Indicate the suggested revision.
Rationale: State the rationale for the suggested revision.
ix
Upon receipt by the Secretary, the request will be
forwarded to the relevant B30 Subcommittee for consid-
eration and action. Correspondence will be provided to the
requester defining the actions undertaken by the B30
Standards Committee.
SECTION IX: REQUESTS FOR INTERPRETATION
The B30 Standards Committee will render an interpre-
tation of the provisions of the B30 Standard. An Interpre-
tation Submittal Form is available on ASME’s website at
http://cstools.asme.org/Interpretation/Interpretation-
Form.cfm.
Phrase the question as a request for an interpretation of
a specific provision suitable for general understanding
and use, not as a request for approval of a proprietary
design or situation. Plans or drawings that explain the
question may be submitted to clarify the question.
However, they should not contain any proprietary
names or information. Read carefully the note addressing
the types of requests that the B30 Standards Committee
can and cannot consider.
Upon submittal, the request will be forwarded to the
relevant B30 Subcommittee for a draft response, which
will then be subject to approval by the B30 Standards
Committee prior to its formal issuance. The B30 Standards
Committee may rewrite the question for the sake of clarity.
Interpretations to the B30 Standard will be available
online at https://cstools.asme.org/Interpretation/
SearchInterpretation.cfm.
SECTION X: ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE
The equipment covered by the B30 Standard is subject
to hazards that cannot be abated by mechanical means, but
only by the exercise of intelligence, care, and common
sense. It is therefore essential to have personnel involved
in the use and operation of equipment who are competent,
careful, physically and mentally qualified, and trained in
the proper operation of the equipment and the handling of
loads. Serious hazards include, but are not limited to,
improper or inadequate maintenance, overloading, drop-
ping or slipping of the load, obstructing the free passage of
the load, and using equipment for a purpose for which it
was not intended or designed.
The B30 Standards Committee fully realizes the impor-
tance of proper design factors, minimum or maximum
dimensions, and other limiting criteria of wire rope or
chain and their fastenings, sheaves, sprockets, drums,
and similar equipment covered by the Standard, all of
which are closely connected with safety. Sizes, strengths,
and similar criteria are dependent on many different
factors, often varying with the installation and uses.
These factors depend on
(a) the condition of the equipment or material
(b) the loads
 (c) the acceleration or speed of the ropes, chains, (g) many variables that must be considered in each in-
sheaves, sprockets, or drums dividual case
(d) the type of attachments The requirements and recommendations provided in
(e) the number, size, and arrangement of sheaves or the volumes must be interpreted accordingly, and judg-
other parts ment used in determining their application.
(f) environmental conditions causing corrosion or
wear

x
 ASME B30.23-2022
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Following approval by the ASME B30 Committee and ASME, and after public review, ASME B30.23-2022 was approved by
the American National Standards Institute on February 22, 2022.

ASME B30.23-2022 includes the following changes identified by a margin note, (22).

Page Location Change

viii B30 Standard Introduction Updated
1 Section 23-0.3 (1) Definitions of anti-two-block device, boom, boom-attached
personnel, brake, equipment configuration, intermediate rail,
nondestructive test, outriggers, platform occupant, platform
rating, rated load, runway, shall, should, stabilizer, suspended
personnel platform, toeboard, top rail, and travel revised
(2) Definitions of dedicated spotter, guardrail system, maximum
horizontal reach, and personal fall arrest system added
(3) Definitions of hoisting equipment operator; latch, hook; load
ratings; and working load deleted
2 Section 23-0.5 Updated
4 23-1.1.1 Subparagraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3) revised
10 23-3.1.1 Subparagraph (e) revised
11 23-3.1.4 Subparagraphs (a)(4) and (b)(4) revised
11 23-3.2.1 (1) Subparagraph (f) added, and subsequent subparagraphs
redesignated
(2) Subparagraphs (h), (k)(3), and (k)(5) revised
(3) Subparagraph (k)(8) added
12 23-3.2.2 Subparagraph (c)(11) revised
13 23-3.2.4 (1) Subparagraphs (a)(3) and (a)(8) revised
(2) Subparagraph (a)(9) added
22 Mandatory Appendix II In Form, item 13 revised

xi
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

xii
 ASME B30.23-2022
Chapter 23-0
Scope, Definitions, and References
SECTION 23-0.1: SCOPE OF ASME B30.23
Within the general scope defined in B30
Standard Introduction, Section I, ASME B30.23 may
apply to hoisting and accessory equipment covered
within certain volumes of the ASME B30 Standard,
which is used to lift, lower, hold, or transport personnel
in a platform, by wire rope or chain, from hoist equipment,
or by a platform that is mounted on a boom of the hoist
equipment. The lifting of personnel is not allowed using
some ASME B30 Standard equipment. The ASME B30
Standard addressing the hoisting equipment to be used
shall be consulted for the applicability of the ASME
B30.23 volume.
SECTION 23-0.2: INTENT OF ASME B30.23
This Volume establishes the design criteria, equipment
characteristics, and operational procedures that are
required when hoisting equipment within the scope of
the ASME B30 Standard is used to lift personnel. Hoisting
equipment defined by the ASME B30 Standard is intended
for material handling. It is not designed, manufactured, or
intended to meet the standards for personnel handling
equipment, such as ANSI/SIA A92 (Aerial Platforms).
The equipment and implementation requirements
listed in this Volume are not the same as that established
for using equipment specifically designed and manufac-
tured for lifting personnel. Hoisting equipment complying
with the applicable volumes of the ASME B30 Standard
shall not be used to lift or lower personnel unless
there are no less hazardous alternatives to providing
access to the area where work is to be performed. The
lifting or lowering of personnel using ASME B30-
compliant hoisting equipment is prohibited unless all ap-
plicable requirements of this Volume have been met.
ð22Þ SECTION 23-0.3: DEFINITIONS
anti-two-block device: a device that, when activated, disen-
gages all equipment functions whose movement can cause
two-blocking.
attachment point(s): the place(s) on a boom or a personnel
platform that is used to connect either the platform to the
boom or to a suspension system.
1
automatic brake: a device that retards or stops motion,
without actuation by the operator, when specific equip-
ment operational parameters are met.
boom: a hinged structural member used for supporting the
hoisting tackle and load.
boom-attached personnel platform: platform attached to
the boom of the equipment.
brake: a device, other than a motor, used for retarding or
stopping motion by means of friction or power.
certified welder: a person holding a current certificate, for
the type of weld being applied, as proof that qualified test
welds have been performed and passed in accordance
with the American Welding Society or American
Society of Mechanical Engineers criteria.
dedicated spotter: a qualified signalperson who is in
continuous contact with the operator and whose sole
responsibility is to verify that the specified clearance is
maintained.
design factor: the ratio of the ultimate strength of a mate-
rial to its working (unit) stress, unless defined otherwise
in the text of this Volume, for specific applications.
equipment configuration: the post-assembly arrangement
of the equipment including boom, supporting base, coun-
terweight(s), jib(s), extension(s), and attachment(s).
guardrail system: an assembly of horizontal rails, posts,
toeboards, and materials that form a barrier at the peri-
meter of a personnel platform to prevent platform occu-
pants from falling off the platform. A guardrail system may
include a means of access.
ground crew: those individuals who are involved in the
personnel lift, other than the hoisting equipment operator
and platform occupants. These individuals include riggers,
signal persons, and supervision.
handrail: a member supported on brackets to furnish
support to platform occupants during lifting operations.
hoisting equipment: a machine for lifting and lowering a
load and moving it horizontally. The machine may be fixed
or mobile and be driven manually, by power, or by a
combination of both. As used in this Volume, the term
covers all types of lifting machines addressed by the ap-
plicable volumes of the ASME B30 Standard and used to
lift, lower, or transport personnel.
 ASME B30.23-2022
intermediate rail: the member of a guardrail system along
the edges of a platform, located approximately one-half
the distance between the platform floor and top rail.
lift director: a person who directly oversees the work being
performed by the hoisting equipment and the associated
ground crew.
live boom: a boom whose lowering is controlled by a brake
without the aid of other lowering retarding devices (free-
fall capable).
live load line: a load line whose lowering is controlled by a
brake without the aid of other lowering retarding devices
(free-fall capable).
management: the owner or user responsible for ensuring
the safety of the personnel lifting system.
maximum horizontal reach: the maximum horizontal
distance the equipment configuration can reach during
operations.
nondestructive test: a test that does not destroy the func-
tional use of the equipment, such as, but not limited to, dye
penetrant, magnetic particle, radiography, and ultrasonic
tests.
outriggers: extendable or fixed members attached to the
mounting base, which rest on supports at the outer ends,
used to support the equipment.
personal fall arrest system: an assembly of components
used to stop a person in free fall. It includes a full
body harness, an anchorage point, and a means to
connect the full body harness to the anchorage point
(e.g., lanyard).
personnel lifting: raising, lowering, or transporting per-
sonnel using equipment covered by the ASME B30 Stan-
dard.
personnel lift authorizer: a person designated by manage-
ment to verify compliance with the provisions of this
Volume.
platform occupant: a person who is within the guardrail
system while the personnel platform is in a hoisted posi-
tion.
platform rating: the maximum capacity of a personnel
lifting platform, established by the platform manufacturer,
in terms of allowable weight and number of occupants.
power-controlled lowering: a system or device in the
power train, other than the load hoist brake, that can regu-
late the lowering rate of speed of the load hoist
mechanism.
qualified person: a person who, by possession of a recog-
nized degree in an applicable field or certificate of profes-
sional standing or by extensive knowledge, training, and
experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to
solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter
and work.
2
rated load: capacity or rating established by the manufac-
turer or a qualified person for a stipulated equipment
configuration.
rope: refers to wire rope unless otherwise specified.
runway: an assembly of rails, beams, girders, brackets,
concrete, and framework on which the equipment travels.
shall: a word indicating a requirement.
should: a word indicating a recommendation.
site supervisor: a person who exercises supervisory
control over the work site on which the hoisting equip-
ment is being used and over the work that is being
performed on that site.
stabilizer: an extendable or fixed member(s) attached to
the mounting base to increase the stability of the equip-
ment but which may or may not have the capability of
relieving all of the weight from the wheels or tracks.
suspended personnel platform: platform attached to equip-
ment using wire rope, chain, or jointed attachment and
that has no installed motion controls for the platform
itself.
suspension system: the rope or chain slings and other
components, including fastening devices, used to
connect the hoisting equipment to the personnel platform.
telescoping boom: a boom in which one or more boom
sections are telescoped for additional length.
toeboard: a barrier at floor level along the edges of a plat-
form to protect against material falling.
top rail: the top member of a guardrail system along the
edges of a platform.
travel: the function of the equipment moving under its
own power from one location to another on a jobsite.
two-blocking: the condition in which the lower load block
or hook assembly comes in contact with the upper load
block or boom point sheave assembly.
SECTION 23-0.4: PERSONNEL COMPETENCE
Persons performing the functions identified in this
Volume shall, through education, training, experience,
skill, and physical fitness, as necessary, be competent
and capable to perform the functions as determined by
the employer or employer’s representative.
SECTION 23-0.5: REFERENCES ð22Þ
The following is a list of publications referenced in this
Volume:
AISC 348-2000, Specification for Structural Joints Using
ASTM A325 or A490 Bolts
Publisher: American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC),
130 East Randolph Street, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60601
(www.aisc.org)
 ASME B30.23-2022
ANSI/ASSP Z359.1-2007,Safety Requirements for
Personal Fall Arrest Systems, Subsystems and Compo-
nents
Publisher: American Society of Safety Professionals
(ASSP), 520 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL
60068 (www.assp.org)
3
ASME B30.9-2010, Slings
Publisher: The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(ASME), Two Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5990
(www.asme.org)
AWS D1.1-2010, Structural Welding Code — Steel (Section
5, Parts C and D)
Publisher: American Welding Society (AWS), 8669 NW 36
Street, No. 130, Miami, FL 33166 (www.aws.org)
 ASME B30.23-2022

Chapter 23-1
Construction and Characteristics

SECTION 23-1.1: DESIGN respectively. The value of f2 shall be verified as adequate

ð22Þ 23-1.1.1 Personnel Lifting Platform
(a) Design Factor
(1) Suspended Platforms
(-a) The suspended platform shall have a
minimum design factor of 5, based on the stated platform
rating. Each load-supporting component shall have a
minimum design factor of 5 based on the maximum
intended resultant stress in that component.
(-b) The suspended platform suspension system
shall have a minimum design factor based on the
maximum intended resultant stress in the suspension
system during use and guided by the following:
(-1) one-leg system — design factor of 7
(-2) two or more leg system — design factor of 5
for each leg with only two legs under stress
(2) Boom Attached Platforms
(-a) The load-supporting structural components
of the platform shall have a minimum design factor of
2 based on the minimum yield strength of the material.
(-b) The load-supporting structural components
of the platform that are made of nonductile material,
which will not deform plastically before breaking, shall
have a minimum design factor of 5 based on the
minimum ultimate strength of the materials used.
(-c) The stress used in determining the design
factor shall be the maximum stresses developed within
the component, based on the platform rating and operated
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. This
stress shall include the effects of stress concentration and
dynamic loading as shown in the following formula:
design factor =
( 1 + 2)f1 f2
where
f1 = stress concentration factor
f2 = dynamic loading factor
σ = yield strength for materials described in (-a) or
ultimate strength for materials described in (-b)
σ1 = stress due to the weight of the platform
σ2 = stress due to the maximum platform rating
The values of f 1 and f2 may be determined by
experimental stress analysis on a prototype unit. The
values of f1 and f2 shall be not less than 1.10 and 1.25,
by the manufacturer of the hoisting equipment on which
the platform is intended to be used.
(b) Features. Platforms and suspension systems shall
be designed to minimize hazards to the occupants. The
following items shall be the minimum design require-
ments for a platform:
(1) A minimum platform rating of 300 lb (136 kg).
(2) Guardrail system consisting of a top rail, inter-
mediate rail, toeboard, and lower barrier. The top rail
shall be not less than 39 in. (990 mm) nor more than
45 in. (1 140 mm) in height with respect to the platform
floor. The toeboard shall be around the entire periphery of
the platform and a minimum of 3.5 in. (90 mm) in height
from the top of the platform floor. The lower barrier shall
span the distance between the toeboard and intermediate
rail, and be of solid construction or expanded metal having
no opening that would allow a 0.5 in. (13 mm) sphere to
pass through, and be capable of withstanding an
outwardly imposed load of 300 lb (135 kg) applied
over a 1 ft2 surface at any point without failure of the
barrier material or its connection to the platform struc-
ture. Each top rail and intermediate rail shall be capable of
withstanding a concentrated load of 300 lb (135 kg)
applied at any point in an outward or downward direction
without breaking or sustaining permanent deformation. A
solid barrier from the top rail to the floor is permissible,
provided the top rail height and barrier structural compe-
tence meet the requirements of this paragraph.
(3) Anchorage points within the platform or on the
boom tip. These points shall be suitable for attaching per-
sonnel fall arrest system lanyards and capable of with-
standing, without failure, the impact load created by
falling personnel. Anchorage points shall be capable of
withstanding a static force of 3,600 lb (16 000 N) for
each person allowed by the manufacturer on the person-
nel platform without reaching ultimate strength. The
strength requirement shall apply only to the anchorage
points and their attachment to the boom or platform.
(-a) Anchorage points shall be marked with iden-
tification as a personal fall arrest system anchorage point
and the number of platform occupants that are permitted
to attach to the anchorage point at one time.
(-b) Anchorage points shall be compatible with a
lanyard connector that complies with ANSI/ASSP Z359.1-
2007.

4
 ASME B30.23-2022
(4) Handrails shall be provided around the interior
perimeter of the platform with the exception of any access
gates or doors. Handrails shall have a clearance of not less
than 1.5 in. (39 mm) between the railing and any other
structure.
(5) Flooring with a slip-resistant surface and provi-
sions to facilitate the free drainage of liquids and that will
withstand the forces developed under proof test loadings.
Flooring shall have no opening that will allow a sphere of
0.5 in. (13 mm) to pass through.
(6) Means to secure loose items within the platform.
(7) An identification plate shall be located on the
platform. The location shall protect against damage
and allow easy viewing from both the interior (while
hoisted) and exterior (while not hoisted) of the platform.
As a minimum, the following information shall be
displayed:
(-a) manufacturer name and address
(-b) platform rating in terms of weight and person-
nel
(-c) platform identification number
(-d) suspension system description for suspended
platforms or the intended hoisting equipment manufac-
turer identification for boom-attached platforms
(-e) weight of the empty platform and its suspen-
sion system
(-f) date of the platform manufacture
(-g) certification of compliance to the design,
construction, and testing requirements of this Volume
(-h) listing of any unique operational environ-
ments for which the platform has been designed
(8) Access systems, if installed, shall be equipped
with a positive acting device to restrain the access
system from accidental opening. Swinging access gates
shall be prevented from swinging outward while the plat-
form is suspended. Access systems and hardware shall
meet (2) requirements without detaching or affecting
proper operation.
(9) The suspension system shall minimize tipping
due to movement of personnel on the platform and
should not allow motion of more than 10 deg off the hori-
zontal plane.
(10) For suspended platforms, a suspension system
that minimizes the potential for the system’s removal and
use for other purposes. The suspension system shall be
sized by the platform manufacturer, and its installed sling
angle established, so as not to cause damage to the plat-
form. Suspension systems shall comply with the following:
(-a) Rope sling suspension systems with mechani-
cally spliced flemish eyes, if used, shall be designed with
thimbles in all eyes. Wire rope clips, wedge sockets, or
knots shall not be used.
(-b) Rope sling suspension systems with pored
socket end connections, if used, shall be designed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer’s or qualified person’s appli-
cation instructions.
5
(-c) Chain sling suspension systems, if used, shall
be designed using a minimum of grade 80 chain.
(-d) All sling suspension systems shall utilize a
master link for attachment to the hoisting equipment
hook or bolt type shackle with cotter pin.
(-e) Synthetic roundslings, webbing slings,
synthetic fiber rope slings, or natural fiber rope slings
shall not be used for suspension systems.
(-f) Suspension system legs shall be sized based on
the requirements of (a)(1)(-b).
(-g) Suspension systems should be designed to
divide the load evenly among the suspension legs.
(-h) Rope sling and chain sling suspension systems
shall have each leg of the system permanently marked
with the rated load of the leg. The master link in the
system shall be permanently marked with the suspension
system’s rated load and identification as a personnel
lifting platform suspension component.
(-i) Shackles, if used in the suspension system,
shall be of a bolt type with cotter pin.
(11) Overhead protection, when provided for a plat-
form, shall allow for a clear view of the hoist equipment
components directly overhead, from any position in the
platform. Any openings designed in the overhead protec-
tion shall not allow a sphere of greater than 0.5 in. (13 mm)
to pass through.
(12) Include appropriate accessories to facilitate the
use of the platform in the special environments specified
by the manufacturer.
(13) Welds used in the construction of the platform
shall be in accordance with American Welding Society or
ASME guidelines.
(14) Bolted connections of load sustaining members
or components of the platform shall be in accordance with
the AISC 348-2000.
(15) The incorporation of a weatherproof compart-
ment suitable for storage of the Operator Manual and
assorted other documents, or a weatherproof placard
displaying the Operator Manual, and readable from the
platform, when motion controls that are operational
from the platform are installed.
(16) Motion controls, if installed on the platform,
shall
(-a) be clearly identified as to their function
(-b) be protected from inadvertent actuation
(-c) be inside the platform and readily accessible
to the operator
(-d) when possible be oriented and move in the
approximate direction of the function that they control
(-e) return to their neutral position and stop all
motion when released
(17) Boom motion controls, if provided, shall addi-
tionally
(-a) include a control that must be continuously
activated for controls to be operational
 ASME B30.23-2022
(-b) include an Emergency Stop Control that does
not require continuous actuation for a stop condition
(-c) have motion controls, accessible at ground
level, that can override platform controls
23-1.1.2 Hoisting Equipment
(a) Only the hoisting equipment manufacturer may
approve the design, and installation procedures, for plat-
form mounting attachment points on lattice type boom
equipment and lattice type boom extensions. The
design, and installation procedures, for platform-
mounting attachment points on other type hoisting equip-
ment shall be approved by the hoisting equipment manu-
facturer or a qualified person. All approvals shall be in
writing.
(b) Platform-mounting attachments on the hoisting
equipment and on the platform should allow the platform
floor to remain within 10 deg of the horizontal plane,
regardless of boom angle.
(c) Platform-mounting attachments on the hoisting
equipment shall be designed to protect against disengage-
ment during lifting operation.
SECTION 23-1.2: CONSTRUCTION
23-1.2.1 Personnel Lifting Platform
(a) Standards. Platforms shall be constructed using
designs meeting the requirements of Section 23-1.1.
(b) Quality Assurance
(1) Edges exposed to contact by platform occupants
or platform handlers shall be smoothed to protect against
injury.
(2) Welding of the platform shall be in accordance
with American Welding Society or ASME procedures
and performed by a certified welder.
(3) Quality verification testing shall, as a minimum,
consist of the requirements outlined in para. 23-2.2.1(a).
(c) Certifications and Manuals
(1) The manufacturer shall certify that the platform
manufactured, and the suspension system incorporated,
meet the design, construction, and testing requirements
set forth in this Volume. This certification shall be indi-
cated on the plate attached to the platform.
(2) The manufacturer shall provide written certifica-
tion of the platform rating to the purchaser upon request.
(3) The manufacturer of a platform, which has plat-
form motion controls in the platform, shall
(-a) provide an Operator Manual with the platform
(-b) provide a weatherproof compartment, in the
platform, that is capable of storing the Operator Manual or
have the Operator Manual displayed on a weatherproof
placard, readable from the platform
(4) Translation of Non-English Documentation Into
English
6
(-a) The wording of written non-English safety
information and manuals regarding use, inspection,
and maintenance shall be translated into English by
professional translation industry standards, which
include, but are not limited to, the following:
(-1) translation of the complete paragraph
message, instead of word by word
(-2) grammatical accuracy
(-3) respectfulness of the source document
content without omitting or expanding the text
(-4) accurate translation of the terminology
(-5) reflection of the level of sophistication of
the original document
(-b) The finished translation shall be verified for
compliance with (-a)(-1) through (-a)(-5) by a qualified
person having an understanding of the technical
content of the subject matter.
(-c) Pictograms used to identify controls shall be
described in the manuals. The pictograms should comply
with ISO 7000, ISO 7296, or another recognized source, if
previously defined. The text of the description shall meet
the criteria of (-a) and (-b).
(-d) Any non-English documentation provided in
addition to English shall be translated and reviewed in
accordance with the requirements listed above.
23-1.2.2 Hoisting Equipment
Hoisting equipment used to lift personnel platforms
shall have been constructed in accordance with the appli-
cable volume of the ASME B30 Standard. All hoisting
equipment shall be verified as meeting the following re-
quirements prior to being used for personnel lifting:
(a) Hoist equipment features and/or controls that
permit live boom or live load line operation shall be
made inoperable so that neither a live boom nor a live
load line operation can take place during personnel lifting.
(b) Rope or chain hoisting systems, which are used for
personnel lifting, shall have an anti-two-block device
installed.
(c) Hoisting equipment with a variable angle boom
shall have a boom angle indicator readily visible to the
operator.
(d) Hoisting equipment with telescoping booms shall
have a boom length indicator, readable from the opera-
tor’s station, unless the load rating is independent of the
boom length.
(e) Hooks used for attachment of a personnel lifting
platform shall be of a type that can be positively
locked closed and will prevent the platform lifting
bridle from being dislodged.
(f) Hoisting equipment shall have automatic brakes on
all functions to be used during personnel handling such
that when the equipment operating controls are released,
the motions are brought to rest. Machines not equipped
with automatic swing brakes shall have a manually
 ASME B30.23-2022
applied swing brake and a park brake or lock capable of
being set at any swing position.
(g) A holding device, such as a load hold check valve,
shall be provided in hydraulic or pneumatic systems to
prevent uncontrolled movement of the hoisting equip-
ment in the event of a system failure (e.g., supply hose).
7
(h) A means to prevent the retraction of any hydrau-
lically or pneumatically activated outriggers or stabilizers
in the event a hydraulic or pneumatic line fails, when such
devices are a component of the hoisting equipment.
(i) Pendant supported, jib type, boom extensions
without positive stops shall not be used to lift personnel.
(j) A boom-attached platform is prohibited from being
used on a luffing jib.
 ASME B30.23-2022
Chapter 23-2
Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance
SECTION 23-2.1: INSPECTION
All equipment used in the lifting of personnel shall be
inspected, tested, and maintained to protect against
failure during lifting operations. All inspections shall
be performed by a designated person. Any deficiencies
identified shall be examined and a determination made
by a qualified person as to whether they constitute a
hazard.
23-2.1.1 Personnel Lifting Platform
(a) General. The platform manufacturer shall furnish
complete inspection criteria for platform users. The
criteria shall address all inspection frequency classifica-
tions listed in this Volume and shall cover
(1) the platform
(2) rigging components
(3) fasteners
(4) all safety features and attachments
(b) Frequency
(1) Initial Inspection. Prior to initial use and at each
new job site, all platforms shall be inspected to verify
compliance with the applicable provisions of this Volume.
(2) Regular Inspection
(-a) Frequent. The platform, suspension system,
attachment points, and any platform motion controls
shall be inspected at least once each day before use.
The inspection is to identify conditions that have been
specifically indicated by the platform manufacturer, or
a qualified person, as potentially creating a hazardous
operating condition. The inspection shall address at
least those items listed in Mandatory Appendix III. Any
conditions found that constitute a hazard shall be
corrected prior to lifting personnel.
(-b) Periodic. At least once every 12 months, or as
required by the platform manufacturer, a periodic inspec-
tion of the platform shall be performed in accordance with
the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Platforms
that have been out of service for 12 or more consecutive
months shall receive a periodic inspection prior to use.
(-c) Records
(-1) For frequent inspections, dated records for
the hoisting equipment and personnel platform shall be
made and kept by the platform user for the duration of the
personnel lift operation.
8
(-2) For periodic inspections, dated records for
the platform shall be made by the platform owner. The last
periodic inspection shall be kept with the platform and
available for review.
23-2.1.2 Hoisting Equipment
Hoisting equipment shall be inspected in accordance
with the defined “Inspection Classification” requirements
of the applicable volume of the ASME B30 Standard. All
operational aids on the hoisting equipment shall be func-
tional.
SECTION 23-2.2: TESTING
23-2.2.1 Personnel Lifting Platform
(a) Platform Manufacturer Tests
(1) Personnel platforms shall be tested by the manu-
facturer to the extent necessary to verify compliance with
the requirements of this Volume, including items such as
the following:
(-a) load suspension mechanisms or attachment
components
(-b) occupant safety features
(-c) platform rating
(2) Where the complete production platform is not
supplied by one manufacturer, such tests shall be
conducted at final assembly by the platform assembler
or a designated person.
(3) Rope sling, chain sling, or other leg suspension
systems shall be tested, prior to installation, by applying a
test load to each individual leg equal to twice the rated load
of the leg. If a master link is used in the suspension system,
it shall be tested to at least twice the sum of the weight of
the platform and the platform rating. All tested compo-
nents shall be visually inspected after testing. Any compo-
nent showing damage shall be replaced and the test
procedure repeated.
(4) The suspension system attaching points on
suspended platforms shall be subjected to nondestructive
testing by the platform manufacturer.
(b) Proof Testing
(1) At each new job site, prior to hoisting people in
the personnel platform, the platform and rigging shall be
proof tested to 125% of the platform’s rating. With the
proof test load evenly distributed in the platform, the
 ASME B30.23-2022

platform shall be hoisted and held in a suspended position
for not less than 5 min. After the proof testing, the platform
shall be inspected per para. 23-2.1.1. Any damage revealed
by the inspection shall be corrected and another proof test
conducted.
(2) When feasible, the hoisting equipment to be used
for lifting personnel should be the equipment used to
perform the proof tests at the job site as defined in (b).
(3) After any structural repair or modification, a plat-
form shall be proof tested to 150% of the platform’s rating.
Boom attached platforms shall use the test procedure
described in (1). Suspended platforms shall be tested
by raising the loaded platform to a height, then lowering
it at a speed of not less than 100 ft/min (30.5 m/min). Once
a lowering speed of 100 ft/min (30.5 m/min) or more is
reached, the platform descent shall be halted by applying
the hoisting equipment brakes and then the platform
allowed to hang for a period of not less than 5 min.
After this test and hanging period, the platform shall
be inspected per para. 23-2.1.1. Any damage revealed
by the inspection shall be corrected and another proof
test conducted.
(c) Records. The record of the most recent proof testing
shall be maintained at the job site.
23-2.2.2 Hoisting Equipment
(a) Hoisting equipment shall be tested in accordance
with the defined “Operational Tests” and “Load Test” re-
quirements of the applicable ASME B30 volume.
(b) The hoisting equipment used for lifting personnel
shall be tested during the trial lift, as defined in
paras. 23-3.2.2(c)(9) and 23-3.2.2(c)(10).
SECTION 23-2.3: MAINTENANCE
Maintenance instructions in this Volume are intended
as the minimum guidance for general applications. The
personnel platform and hoisting equipment manufac-
turer’s information shall be consulted for specific or
more stringent maintenance instructions.
23-2.3.1 Personnel Lifting Platform
(a) Preventive Maintenance
(1) A preventive maintenance program shall be
established and should be based on the recommendations
outlined by the platform manufacturer.
(2) Replacement parts used shall be equal to or
exceed the original equipment specifications.
(b) Adjustments and Repairs
(1) Any hazardous condition disclosed by any
inspection shall be corrected before use of the platform
is resumed. Adjustments and repairs shall be accom-
plished by designated personnel.
(2) Adjustments shall provide for correct func-
tioning of components.
(3) Replacement parts used or repairs made shall be
equal to or exceed the original equipment specification.
(4) All welding repairs shall be done by a certified
welder.
(5) Any adjustment or repair to the platform suspen-
sion system shall be done by a qualified person.
(6) Rope slings or chain slings showing indications
described in ASME B30.9 shall be taken out of service.
(c) Modifications. Only modifications approved in
writing by the manufacturer or a qualified person shall
be accomplished.
(d) Records. The platform owner shall maintain
records on any repairs to, or replacements of, the struc-
tural components of the platform.
23-2.3.2 Hoisting Equipment
Hoisting equipment shall be maintained in accordance
with the requirements of the applicable ASME B30 volume
and be capable of operating in accordance with the manu-
facturer’s manuals.

9
 ASME B30.23-2022
Chapter 23-3
Operation
SECTION 23-3.1: PERSONNEL
ð22Þ 23-3.1.1 Management
(a) Management shall require that the provisions of
this Volume are applied at the operational level.
(b) Management shall designate qualified individuals
at each job site to perform the duties of the “personnel
lift authorizer.” As a minimum, these individuals shall
be responsible for
(1) verifying the need for a personnel lift
(2) verifying the equipment to be used for the per-
sonnel lift meets the requirements of Chapter 23-1
(3) authorizing the personnel lift operation
(4) requiring the personnel lift be accomplished in
accordance with the provisions of this Volume
(c) Site supervisor shall require that the provisions of
this Volume are implemented during personnel lifting
operations.
(d) Management shall designate a “lift director” for
each personnel lift operation. As a minimum, the individ-
ual shall be responsible for
(1) holding the pre-lift meeting
(2) verifying all required inspections have been
accomplished
(3) verifying qualified persons are assigned to
perform the functions of the operator, signalpersons,
and ground crew
(4) supervising the personnel lift operation
(5) accomplishing other tasks that may be needed to
enhance the safety of the personnel lift
(e) Management shall require that the hoisting equip-
ment operator, platform occupants, and ground crew
attend the pre-lift meeting and receive the training speci-
fied in this Volume.
(f) Lift director shall not allow any operator to lift per-
sonnel under the following circumstances:
(1) The operator does not feel physically or mentally
fit to perform the operation.
(2) The operator has been working for more than 10
hr prior to the start of the lift, or the lift will not be
completed before the operator has been working for
12 hr.
(3) The operator did not have at least 8 hr off imme-
diately prior to the work shift containing the personnel lift
operation.
10
(g) Lift director shall designate the appropriate
number of signalpersons, ground crew, and platform occu-
pants to perform the personnel lift safely. In suspended
and boom-attached platforms without boom motion
controls, one occupant shall be designated as the platform
signalperson. This person shall be responsible for commu-
nicating with the operator and/or other designated signal-
persons.
(h) Management shall require that the hoisting equip-
ment used to lift personnel is in compliance with the re-
quirements prescribed in this Volume and the applicable
hoisting equipment ASME B30 volume.
23-3.1.2 Hoisting Equipment Operator
(a) Qualifications
(1) The operator shall be qualified to operate the
specific type of hoisting equipment used in the personnel
lift.
(2) The operator shall comply with any applicable
management-developed qualification criteria. As a
minimum, the operator qualification requirements shall
include but not be limited to
(-a) successfully meeting the physical qualifica-
tion criteria as established in the applicable hoisting
equipment ASME B30 volume. Additionally, the operator
shall have been tested for substance abuse. Testing shall
be in accordance with applicable government regulations
and the policies of the employer.
(-b) successfully meeting the training and qualifi-
cation criteria established in the applicable hoisting
equipment addressed in the ASME B30 Standard.
(b) Responsibilities. The operator shall be responsible
for complying with the requirements of this Volume with
regard to
(1) hoisting equipment capability
(2) rated load constraints
(3) operational limitations
(4) confirming that all hoisting equipment inspec-
tions have been completed and are satisfactory, prior
to starting the lift
(5) operating the hoisting equipment in compliance
with the procedures specified in this Volume
(6) those operations under the operator’s direct
control
 ASME B30.23-2022

(c) Conduct
(1) The operator is prohibited from lifting personnel
under the following circumstances:
(-a) The operator does not feel physically or
mentally fit to perform the operation.
(-b) The operator has been working for more than
10 hr prior to the start of the lift, or the lift will not be
completed before the operator has been working for
12 hr.
(-c) The operator did not have at least 8 hr off
immediately prior to the work shift containing the person-
nel lift operation.
(2) While actually engaged in operating the hoisting
equipment, the operator shall not engage in any practice
that will divert his attention.
(3) The operator shall only respond to signals from a
designated signalperson. The operator shall obey a stop
signal at any time, no matter who gives it.
(4) Whenever the operator has any doubt as to the
safety of the lift, the operator shall consult with the lift
director before commencing or continuing the lift.
23-3.1.3 Ground Crew
(a) Qualifications. Individuals assigned as ground crew
shall be physically and mentally capable of performing the
inspections and operations associated with the lift. They
shall be trained in the specific requirements of their tasks
associated with the lift.
(b) Responsibilities. The ground crew shall be respon-
sible for
(1) visually inspecting the personnel lifting platform,
and its associated rigging, for hazardous conditions, prior
to and during any operation
(2) assisting in the entrance and exit of personnel lift
occupants at ground level
(3) installing the wire rope slings or chain slings per
the recommendation of the manufacturer or a qualified
person
(4) verifying the personnel platform is securely
attached to the hoisting equipment
(5) verifying the load line is not directly attached to,
or wrapped around, the personnel platform
(6) verifying boom-attached personnel platforms
are only attached using the pins and fittings specified
by the hoist equipment manufacturer or a qualified person
(7) keeping people from passing under the raised
personnel platform
(8) not using a suspension system for lifting person-
nel that has been used for lifting loads other than the per-
sonnel platform
(9) maintaining continuous and positive communi-
cation between the personnel platform occupants and the
operator, if signalpersons are part of the ground crew
(c) Conduct. The ground crew shall not engage in any
practice or have any other duties that will reduce the
safety of the personnel lift operation.
(d) Installation. The installation of the wire rope slings
and/or chain slings and rigging components shall be
performed by a designated person.
23-3.1.4 Personnel Platform Occupants ð22Þ
(a) Qualifications
(1) Occupants shall have been instructed in the
recognized hazards of personnel platform lifts, such as
(-a) impacting structures outside the platform
(-b) unexpected platform motion
(-c) any special hazards associated with the lift
(2) Occupants shall have been instructed in the per-
sonnel lifting procedures and safety precautions.
(3) Occupants shall have attended a pre-lift meeting
as required by this Volume.
(4) Occupants of a platform with controls shall be
qualified to operate the controls.
(b) Responsibilities. The platform occupants shall be
responsible for
(1) maintaining a stable and even loading on the plat-
form.
(2) keeping all parts of their body inside the platform
during raising, lowering, and positioning, except when
performing duties as a designated signalperson.
(3) not interfering with the platform operator or the
designated signalperson in the platform except to give an
emergency stop signal.
(4) keeping their personal fall arrest system lanyard
fastened to their body harness and the provided ancho-
rage points at all times, while occupying the platform,
unless special circumstance work requirements dictate
otherwise [e.g., para. 23-3.2.1(k)(3)].
(5) being familiar with the hand signals posted in the
platform. All occupants shall know the emergency stop
signal.
(c) Conduct. Occupants shall conduct themselves in a
manner to help maintain the platform stability and the
safety of the personnel lift operation.
SECTION 23-3.2: PRACTICES
23-3.2.1 Management ð22Þ
Management shall have a personnel lifting management
and approval program that requires the criteria of this
Volume to be met, prior to lifting personnel. The
program shall, as a minimum, require
(a) the lift director to prepare a personnel lift plan
containing at least the information shown in
Mandatory Appendix II. This plan shall be presented to
the personnel lift authorizer for review/approval. The
plan shall be retained as part of the job site records.
(b) the personnel lift authorizer to verify that there are
no less hazardous alternatives to performing the work or
providing access to the area. The personnel lift shall not be
authorized when less hazardous means are feasible.

11
 ASME B30.23-2022
(c) the personnel lift authorizer to verify that condi-
tions provide clear visibility. When conditions such as
darkness, fog, or snow prevent clear visibility, the person-
nel lift authorizer shall not authorize personnel lifting.
(d) the personnel lift authorizer to only authorize per-
sonnel lifting over, under, or in the vicinity of power lines,
in accordance with the requirements of Mandatory
Appendix I.
(e) personnel platforms not to be used in winds in
excess of 20 mph (32.2 km/h) at the hoisted platform
height, electric storms, or other adverse weather condi-
tions that could affect the safety of personnel.
(f) development of a rescue plan.
(g) the lift director to verify that each of the require-
ments in this Section have been met.
(h) the lift director to hold a pre-lift meeting that
includes a review of the personnel lift plan and is attended
by the hoisting equipment operator, platform occupants,
and ground crew. If individuals are changed during a
series of personnel lifts, the lift director shall review
the personnel lift plan with each new person. Contents
of the pre-lift meeting shall, as a minimum, cover
(1) the operations section of this Volume
(2) assignment and responsibilities of each person
involved in the lift operation
(3) the procedures to be followed
(4) guidance on general and specific safety precau-
tions
(5) special signals for the operation
(6) unique considerations of the lift
(7) work to be accomplished during lift
(8) emergency procedures for the loss of power,
control, or other system faults
(9) if applicable, the responsibilities and assign-
ments contained in Mandatory Appendix I when lifting
personnel near electrical power lines
(i) the lift director to terminate personnel lifting opera-
tions if hazardous conditions develop during the lift.
(j) personnel platforms to be only used for personnel,
their tools, and sufficient material to do their work. They
shall not be used for solely transporting bulk materials.
(k) a qualified person to evaluate the safety concerns of
the operational environment and verify the platform and
hoisting equipment are suitable for use. Additionally,
special work circumstances may require further precau-
tions. Precautions such as, but not limited to, the following
shall be taken:
(1) When welding is to be accomplished from the
personnel platform, suitable electrode holders shall be
provided to protect them from contact with any
conducting components of the platform.
(2) lift director shall instruct operators of hoisting
equipment, installed on floating vessels, not to lift person-
nel when the list or trim of the vessel exceeds 5 deg or the
limits of the manufacturer’s load chart. Wave action and
vessel-to-vessel motions shall be taken into consideration.
12
(3) When personnel lifts are conducted over water,
personal flotation devices shall be provided and required
to be worn. A personal fall arrest system body harness
shall be worn and shall be attached to the platform manu-
facturer’s anchorage point while personnel enter and exit
the platform, are lifted over land and shall be detached
while personnel are lifted over water.
(4) A boat with appropriate rescue personnel shall
be available at all times during a personnel lift over water.
(5) Appropriate personal protective equipment shall
be provided and required to be used around toxic, flam-
mable, or hazardous substances or fumes.
(6) Any concentrated loading of the platform shall be
reviewed to preclude the overstressing of any component
or impairing the platform stability.
(7) Where the rotation of the platform, while hoisted,
can create a hazard, appropriate restraining methods shall
be provided and required to be used.
(8) When personnel are entering or exiting a person-
nel platform attached to hoisting equipment at a location
that is floating, or when personnel are being lifted to a
structure that is floating, the personnel platform shall
be secured to the structure unless securing to the struc-
ture would create a greater hazard. Means of securement
and the acceptable amount of relative movement between
the platform and the structure shall be specified by a qual-
ified person.
23-3.2.2 Hoisting Equipment Operator ð22Þ
(a) The hoist equipment and platform manufacturer’s
information shall be consulted for specific instruction on
the equipment operation. The hoisting equipment and
platform operation instructions in this Volume are
intended as minimum criteria for general applications.
(b) The operator should avoid the simultaneous opera-
tion of more than one of the hoisting equipment motion
controls unless such practice increases the safety of the lift
operation.
(c) The operator shall
(1) inspect the hoist equipment setup area before the
personnel lift and report his observations to the lift
director. The operator shall inspect the area for potential
hazards, such as but not limited to
(-a) excessive load and/or radius
(-b) overhead obstructions and electrical trans-
mission lines
(-c) hazardous locations
(-d) inadequate surface and support to withstand
all forces imposed
(-e) wind, weather, and unstable conditions
(-f) any potentially hazardous conditions
(2) inspect the hoist equipment immediately prior to
starting a personnel lift operation. The criteria for a
Frequent Inspection as specified in the appropriate
hoisting equipment ASME B30 volume shall be used.
 ASME B30.23-2022
(3) operate hoisting equipment with the outriggers
or stabilizers extended, blocked, and locked in accordance
with the manufacturers’ specifications.
(4) verify that the hoisting equipment is set up and
maintained within 1% of level or per manufacturer’s rec-
ommendations during a personnel lift.
(5) for hoisting equipment with a boom-attached
platform, verify that the platform is attached as specified
by the platform manufacturer and hoisting equipment
manufacturer or qualified person.
(6) for hoisting equipment that uses rope to hoist a
personnel platform, verify that the equipment has an anti-
two-block device or upper travel limit switch, installed
and operational.
(7) not allow the total weight of the lifted load,
including rigging, platform, personnel, tools, and material,
to exceed 50% of the hoisting equipment’s rated load or
50% of the hoist rated line pull, whichever is lowest,
during the trial lift and lifting operations (except
during testing as outlined in Chapter 23-2).
(8) not allow the platform’s rating or the hoisting
equipment’s reduced rated load to be exceeded when
loads are transferred to the hoisted platform.
(9) perform a trial lift prior to lifting personnel with
the platform on each shift and after any change of setup
location, hoist equipment configuration, or operator.
These lifts shall be used to ascertain that hoist equipment
setup and configuration is correct, load capacities are
adequate, and no hazardous interferences exist and to
further demonstrate the operator’s competence. For
rail-mounted cranes where travel of the crane is required
during personnel lifting, the trial lift shall include all
required travel of the crane.
(10) verify that during the trial lift, the platform is
loaded to at least the weight expected during the actual lift.
(11) position the platform so that it may be secured
to the structure to which the occupants are entering or
leaving, if the platform cannot be landed during the
entrance or exit of the occupants. If the platform has
been secured, the operator shall not move the platform
until it is verified that it is freely suspended.
(12) not knowingly allow the platform load to exceed
the platform rating, except during proof testing.
(13) not travel the hoisting equipment with person-
nel in the personnel platform except when the equipment
runs on fixed rails or runways.
(14) perform all movements of the platform in a
slow, controlled manner to minimize sudden movements
of the platform.
(15) engage the power-controlled lowering
mechanism at all times the platform is occupied (no
free fall).
(16) not lift or lower an occupied platform at a speed
in excess of 100 ft/min (30.5 m/min) (except during
testing as outlined in Chapter 23-2).
13
(17) remain at the hoisting equipment controls at all
times when the platform is occupied, except for boom-
mounted platforms that have controls and the capability
of lowering the platform to the ground in the event the
primary power source becomes inoperative.
(18) set all brakes and locks on the hoisting equip-
ment after positioning of the personnel platform and
before personnel perform any work.
(19) move the platform under controlled conditions
and under the direction of a designated signalperson.
(20) not move platforms over, under, or in the vici-
nity of power lines unless the requirements of Mandatory
Appendix I are met.
(21) not lift any other loads, on any other load lines,
while conducting a personnel lift. When the hoisting
equipment has a boom-attached platform without
controls, it shall not be used for other lifting service.
(22) not disable, or allow to be disabled, any hoist
equipment safety device during a personnel lift.
(23) not operate a platform with motion controls
without the platform operation manual available in the
platform.
23-3.2.3 Ground Crew
The platform operation instructions in this Volume are
intended as minimum criteria for general applications.
The platform manufacturer’s information shall be
consulted for specific instruction on the platform’s opera-
tion. The ground crew shall
(a) inspect the platform prior to each lift to verify all
attachments and the platform structure are secure.
(b) observe the weight test and report any deformation
or hazardous conditions to the lift director. Items noted
during the weight test shall be verified as safe by a qual-
ified person prior to commencing the personnel lift.
(c) inspect and attach the personnel platform in the
manner specified by the platform manufacturer.
(d) verify the platform is evenly loaded, material
secured, and the total platform weight does not exceed
the platform rating or the reduced hoisting equipment
lift capacity.
(e) not allow an occupied platform over, under, or in the
vicinity of power lines unless the requirements of
Mandatory Appendix I are met.
(f) use tag lines for motion control of suspended plat-
forms unless their use creates an unsafe condition.
23-3.2.4 Platform Occupants ð22Þ
(a) The platform operation instructions in this Volume
are intended as minimum criteria for general applications.
The platform manufacturer’s information shall be
consulted for specific instruction on the platform’s opera-
tion. The platform occupants shall
 ASME B30.23-2022

(1) remain in continuous sight or in communication (2) keep all parts of their body inside the platform
with the operator and in sight and communication of a during raising, lowering, and positioning unless they are
signalperson performing the duties of a designated signalperson
(2) use personal protective equipment, such as hard
hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves, in con- 23-3.2.5 Communications
ditions where a hazard of injury exists
(a) Hand signals to the operator shall be in accordance
(3) wear personal fall arrest system body harnesses
with the applicable hoisting equipment ASME B30 volume.
with lanyards attached to their body harness and to a spe-
(b) Signals shall be discernible or audible to the
cific anchorage point(s) unless special circumstance work
operator.
requirements dictate otherwise [e.g., para. 23-3.2.1(k)(3)]
(c) Hand signals shall be posted conspicuously at the
(4) be limited in number, and commensurate with
following locations:
the work being performed, platform design, and hoisting
(1) as required by the applicable hoisting equipment
equipment limitations
ASME B30 volume
(5) have materials and equipment evenly distributed
(2) inside the personnel platform
and secured while the platform is lifted
(3) at any platform motion control locations
(6) not stand, sit on, or work from the top rail, inter-
(d) Some operations may require additions to, or modi-
mediate rail, toeboard, or use any other device to enhance
fications of, standard signals.
their vertical height working capability
(1) Any special signals shall be agreed upon and
(7) not pull the platform out of plumb with the
understood by the signalpersons and hoisting equipment
hoisting equipment
operator.
(8) not enter or exit a platform while it is raised
(2) Special signals shall not conflict with the hoisting
unless the platform has an installed gate and is physically
equipment standard signals.
secured to the structure to which the occupants are
(e) No response shall be made unless signals are clearly
entering or exiting unless securing to the structure
understood.
would create a greater hazard
(f) If communications between operator and platform
(9) when entering or exiting a personnel platform,
occupants are disrupted, all operations shall be stopped
ensure that fall protection devices are used and that
until communication is reestablished.
the fall protection devices are continuously connected
(g) If radios or other electronic means of communica-
to suitable anchorage points either within the platform
tions are used, they should operate on a secure channel.
or on the structure as determined by a qualified person
(h) Communication systems to be used during the lift
(b) The occupants should
shall be verified as functioning and effective prior to
(1) have audible and visual alert devices in the plat-
commencing the lift.
form for use in an emergency (i.e., air horns or strobe
lights)

14
 ASME B30.23-2022
MANDATORY APPENDIX I
LIFTING PERSONNEL NEAR ELECTRICAL POWER LINES
I-1 INTRODUCTION
This Volume recognizes that lifting personnel where the
hoisting equipment or platform can become electrified
from electric power lines is an extremely hazardous prac-
tice. It is advisable to perform the lift so there is no possi-
bility of the hoisting equipment, load line, or personnel
platform becoming a conductive path. Hoisting equipment
shall not be used to lift personnel under electric power
lines if any combination of boom, personnel platform,
load line, and machine component will enter the prohib-
ited zone shown in the appropriate figure. Lifting person-
nel near electric power lines is not allowed unless there is
no less hazardous way to do the job. The four situations to
consider, and take steps to establish, when lifting person-
nel near electric power lines are
Condition Situation
A Power lines are de-energized and grounded as
shown in Figure I-1-1. (This is the safest and
preferred condition.)
B Power lines are energized with the hoisting
equipment outside the prohibited zone, but
there is a potential for the hoisting equipment
or platform being energized as shown in
Figure I-1-2.
C Power lines are energized with the hoisting
equipment inside the prohibited zone, and
there is a possibility that the hoisting
equipment or platform can become energized
as shown in Figure I-1-3. (Lifting personnel in
this condition is prohibited.)
D Hoisting equipment is in transit with the boom
lowered and no personnel in the platform as
shown in Figure I-1-4.
I-2 CONDITION A
This is the preferred condition under which a personnel
lift can be performed. The hazard of injury or death due to
electrocution has been removed. The following steps shall
be taken when lifting personnel in a Condition A situation:
(a) The power company or owner of the power lines
shall de-energize the lines.
(b) The power lines shall be visibly grounded to avoid
the possibility of electrical feedback.
15
(c) A qualified representative of the owner of the power
lines or a designated representative of the electric utility
shall be on the site to verify that steps (a) and (b) of this
section have been completed and that the power lines are
not energized.
(d) Durable signs shall be installed at the operator’s
station and on the outside of the crane warning that elec-
trocution or serious bodily injury may occur unless the
minimum clearance shown in Table I-2-1 is maintained
between the hoisting equipment and platform and
power lines. These signs shall be posted at the hoist equip-
ment operating station, on the outside of the hoist equip-
ment, and inside the personnel platform.
(e) If proximity warning devices, insulated links, or
boom cages are used, by choice or legal mandate, they
shall not be a substitute for any of the requirements of
this section. If these devices are used, the hoist equipment
operator, ground crew, and platform occupants shall be
instructed by management on the limitations of the
devices, operating condition requirements of the
devices, and the devices’ testing requirements prescribed
by the device manufacturer.
I-3 CONDITION B
The following steps shall be taken when lifting person-
nel in a Condition B situation:
(a) A meeting, on the job site, between the job site
management and either a qualified representative of
the owner of the power lines or the electric utility
shall take place. Procedures to safely complete the lift
shall be established.
(b) The clearance specified in Table I-2-1 shall be main-
tained between the hoisting equipment, load line, and per-
sonnel platform at all times.
(c) Power line movement, horizontal and vertical, due
to wind shall be added to the distances specified in
Table I-2-1. A qualified representative of the power
line owner or a designated representative of the electric
utility shall be consulted for the movement distances.
(d) The required clearances to the power lines shall be
continuously monitored by a dedicated and qualified
signalperson in constant communication with the hoist
equipment operator.
(e) Personnel platform movement restraint, when
required, shall be done through electrically nonconduc-
tive tag lines.
 ASME B30.23-2022
(f) No person outside the personnel platform shall be
permitted to touch the hoist equipment, load line, or plat-
form unless the signalperson identified in (d) indicates it is
safe.
(g) Operation of the boom or the personnel platform
over power lines should be avoided. Poor perception of
distance and multiple contact points, as viewed from the
operator’s and signalperson’s positions, make this a very
hazardous situation.
(h) Power line visibility enhancing devices, such as
ribbons or balls, should be attached to the power lines
to aid in the location of the prohibited zone established
in (b) and (c).
(i) Durable signs shall be posted warning that electro-
cution or serious bodily injury may occur unless the
minimum clearance shown in Table I-2-1 is maintained
between the hoisting equipment and platform and
power lines. These signs shall be posted at the hoist equip-
ment operating station, on the outside of the hoist equip-
ment, and inside the personnel platform.
(j) If proximity warning devices, insulated links, or
boom cages are used, by choice or legal mandate, they
16
shall not be a substitute for any of the requirements of this
section. If these devices are used, the hoist equipment
operator, ground crew, and platform occupants shall
be instructed by management on the limitations of the
devices, operating condition requirements of the
devices, and the devices’ testing requirements prescribed
by the device manufacturer.
I-4 CONDITION C
Lifting personnel under this condition is prohibited.
I-5 CONDITION D
The following steps shall be taken when transiting to a
personnel lifting location in a Condition D situation:
(a) While in transit with no occupants in the platform
and the boom lowered, the clearance to the power lines
shall be as specified in Table I-2-1.
(b) When planning the transit of the hoisting equip-
ment, the effect of ground speed and terrain on the
hoisting equipment and boom movement shall be consid-
ered.
ASME B30.23-2022

Figure I-1-1
Condition A

17
ASME B30.23-2022

Figure I-1-2
Condition B

18
ASME B30.23-2022

Figure I-1-3
Condition C

19
ASME B30.23-2022

Figure I-1-4
Condition D

20
 ASME B30.23-2022

Table I-2-1
Required Clearance for Normal Voltage in Operation
Near High-Voltage Power Lines and Operation
in Transit With No Load and Boom or Mast Lowered

Normal Voltage, Minimum Radial Distance,

kV (Phase to Phase) D, ft (m)
When Operating Near High-Voltage Power Lines
Up to 50 10 (3.05)
Over 50 to 200 15 (4.6)
Over 200 to 350 20 (6.1)
Over 350 to 500 25 (7.62)
Over 500 to 750 35 (10.67)
Over 750 to 1,000 45 (13.72)
While in Transit With No Load and Boom or Mast Lowered
Up to 0.75 4 (1.22)
Over 0.75 to 50 6 (1.83)
Over 50 to 345 10 (3.05)
Over 345 to 750 16 (4.87)
Over 750 to 1,000 20 (6.10)

21
 ASME B30.23-2022

MANDATORY APPENDIX II
PERSONNEL PLATFORM LIFT PLANNING AND AUTHORIZATION
ð22Þ FORM

1. Location: Date:
2. Purpose of lift:

3. Hoisting eqpt. mfr: Model #: Serial #:

4. Expected radius: (maximum); (at work location)
5. (A) Rated load at radius: (B) Maximum lift load: [50% of 5(A)]

6. Platform ID: Platform rating:

7. Platform weight: Type: (Pin On) (Suspended)
8. (A) Number of platform occupants: (B) Approx. wt. (With equip):
9. Total lift weight: [7 + 8(B)] [No more than 5(B) above]
10. Personnel lift supervisor:
11. What are the alternatives to this personnel lift?

12. Why are they not being used?

13. Pre-lift meeting held: / / / AM/PM

Attendees:

14. Anticipated hazards (wind, weather, visibility, power lines):

15. Lift accomplished date: Time:

16. Remarks:

Personnel Lift Authorizer Signature Date

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 ASME B30.23-2022

MANDATORY APPENDIX III

PERSONNEL LIFT PLATFORM PRE-LIFT INSPECTION

Inspector: Date:
Platform ID:
1. Markings Sat Unsat
Platform (all information legible)
Suspension system
2. Structure
Load-supporting welds/bolts
Load-supporting members
Barrier from toeboard to intermediate rail
Handrail
Fall protection device anchorage points
Gate-locking mechanisms
Platform flooring
Suspension attachment points
3. Attachment Mechanisms
Pins/ears/bolt-ups/eyes (circle)
Wire rope/chain/rigid leg (circle)
Master links
4. Special Purpose Items
(Overhead protection, flotation, platform controls)
List: (1)
(2)
(3)
5. General comments:

Lift Director Signature

GENERAL NOTE: Sat = satisfactory; Unsat = unsatisfactory.

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 ASME B30.23-2022

INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

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ASME B30.23-2022